Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

DBEDT today released the 2016 edition of the “State of Hawaii Data Book.” The book is in electronic form and is available on the DBEDT website and may be downloaded in whole or in part as either PDF or Excel files.

DBEDT released its third quarter 2017 Statistical and Economic Report, which shows Hawaii’s economy continues positive growth, but at a slower pace this year and the next few years.

Carilyn Shon has been appointed administrator of the Hawaii State Energy Office, effective July 31. In her new role, Shon will manage, develop, oversee and implement statewide energy programs, policies, and initiatives that support Hawaii’s clean energy transformation.

DBEDT launched a new program aimed at attracting and promoting more international student exchange in Hawaii. The newly created “Study Hawaii Ambassador Program,” kicked off today with the first group of ambassadors from Yasuda Women’s University in Hiroshima, Japan.

DBEDT released a report today, which analyzes the impact of international students on Hawaii’s economy. DBEDT’s Research and Economic Analysis Division (READ) created the report, while the Business Development & Support Division (BDSD) leads the state’s efforts for international student exchange.

MEDIA ADVISORY — DBEDT will launch a new program aimed at attracting and promoting more international student exchange in Hawaii.

Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems — PISCES and Honeybee Robotics, Ltd. have received a $118,690 NASA Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant to jointly develop an In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) technology that could launch the future of space settlement.

Hawaii State Energy Office — Hawaii has surpassed the half-billion-dollar mark for investment in energy performance contracting (EPC), an innovative financing tool that allows government agencies to achieve significant savings from the installation of energy, water and operational efficiency projects without having to pay capital expenses up front.

Hawaii Technology Development Corp. — Recognizing Hawaii’s evolving technology environment and advances in the state’s innovation industry, the High Technology Development Corporation is changing its name to the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

DBEDT Creative Industries Division’s Creative Lab Hawaii (CLH) Music Immersive Program is now accepting applications. The program will be held from Sept. 11 – 15, 2017, immediately following the Hawaii Songwriting Festival at the Hapuna Prince Hotel on Hawaii Island.